"Since the early 1990s, we haven't made any progress," Runge said.

According to Runge, the number of alcohol-related fatalities has remained constant from 2000 to 2002. Last year, there were 17,419 alcohol-related deaths. Of those, more than 15,000 were killed by drivers who had a blood-alcohol level higher than 0.08 percent.

Runge said a bill under consideration in the U.S. Congress would allow the NHTSA to provide grants to states who establish specialized prosecutors or courts dedicated solely to drunk-driving cases.

He is also urging doctors to inquire about drinking behavior during patient visits.

"A doctor's advice is often all you need to catch them early," Runge said.

COMMENTS ON THIS ARTICLE:

Your Turn! Post a public comment (read guidelines):

Name:
Comment: (limit 200 words)
Enter this word (help):	Change

GUIDELINES: 
To keep this feature useful for all, please:

1. Keep it clean, courteous, and on-topic. Comments are meant for thoughtful discussion of the article published above.
   
   
2. Do not post promotional links to organizations, products or services, or personal requests for assistance (get help).
   
   
3. Proof your comments carefully, use good spelling and punctuation, and don't use ALL CAPS. Comments are published immediately and cannot be edited.

Deceptive, slanderous and commercially-motivated posts are prohibited. We reserve the right to remove comments not conforming to these guidelines. (Report a comment).

Have questions or feedback? Contact us.